BU makes Environment studies compulsory for undergrads

In the backdrop of climate change and the urgency to address the global problem, Bangalore University has decided to introduce environmental studies as a compulsory subject in its undergraduate curriculum. Undergraduate students in BU and its affiliated colleges will have to study the subject in the coming 2019-20 academic year.

This will be applicable not only to students across all streams, irrespective of their major subject, but also for those who have opted for the Choice Based Credit Scheme. The registrar has sent a letter to this effect to principals of all affiliated colleges and deans of all departments under the university.

The course can be introduced in a staggered manner, and will be a part of the compulsory core module syllabus of Ability Enhancement Compulsory Courses (AECC), said officials. Students will have to spend four hours each week for the module, which will have eight units.

They will cover 45 lectures where students will get the opportunity to learn more about the environment, and the challenges facing our ecosystem. Besides this, there will also be field activities where students will get first-hand knowledge on various aspects.

The examination will be conducted for 70 marks, which will consist of multiple choice questions in English and Kannada. Another 30 marks will be awarded for internal assessment.

The move has been welcomed by students and faculty members who feel that it will sensitise students about various environmental issues and help them lead a sustainable life.

Principal of MES Degree College of Arts, Commerce and Science, said that the move would help spread awareness on the subject. “It would also be very timely, as there are several projects to protect the environment, such as Swachh Bharat Mission. There is also a ban on plastic. Students can study about alternatives and how the ban can be implemented,” she said.

Rajesh S., a B.Com student who has taken part in several tree plantation programmes, said, “Most of the time, students take part in an activity for a day and forget about it. Introducing a course like this will ensure that many of the learnings from textbooks are ingrained in our lifestyle.”